Pennsylvania’s New Law on Handheld Devices

Distracted driving is one of the leading culprits behind preventable road accidents, claiming thousands of lives every year. Pennsylvania has taken a momentous step in the fight against this growing issue with the implementation of its new ban on handheld devices while driving. Known as Paul Miller’s Law, this legislation is designed to protect drivers, passengers, and pedestrians by eliminating distractions caused by phone use on the road.

The distracted driving attorneys at Lenahan & Dempsey will break down everything you need to know about the new law, its purpose, and its expected impact. We’ll also explain how our firm is equipped to assist those affected by distracted driving accidents.

Details of Pennsylvania’s New Law

Paul Miller’s Law, effective June 5, 2025, makes it illegal to use handheld devices while driving, even during momentary stops such as traffic red lights or brief delays.

This law was named after Paul Miller, who tragically lost his life in 2010 when a tractor-trailer driver reached for their phone while driving. Eileen Miller, Paul’s mother, has been a staunch advocate for road safety laws and spoke emotionally about the new legislation’s importance. “I don’t want any parent to identify their child at the morgue because of something so preventable,” she shared. “I know this law will save lives, and that was the most important thing.”

Violating the law carries penalties, including fines that serve as a deterrent for reckless behavior. AAA’s Jim Garrity considers this legislation a “great step in combating one of the fastest-growing threats on the roadway today.” The law’s holistic approach sets a clear standard for better driving behavior, focusing on saving lives.

What the Law Prohibits

• Using handheld devices while driving, including at red lights or during traffic delays.
• Picking up your phone for calls, texts, apps, or any other reason while the vehicle is running.

Penalties for Violations

Violators of Paul Miller’s Law:

• Face fines, increasing with repeated offenses.
• Risk points on their driver’s license, which could lead to elevated insurance premiums.

This strict implementation is creating a safer space for everyone on Pennsylvania’s roads.

The Heartbreaking Impact of Distracted Driving

Distracted driving causes devastation in Pennsylvania and across the nation. The statistics speak for themselves:

• 11,262 crashes related to distracted driving were recorded in Pennsylvania in 2023 alone.
• Countless lives have been lost or forever changed due to drivers who paid more attention to their devices than the road.

These numbers underscore how critical the new law is for public safety.

Real-Life Consequences

Tragic incidents like Paul Miller’s untimely death serve as a grim reminder of what’s at stake. Such accidents don’t just claim lives; they leave families shattered and struggling to cope with preventable loss.

Distracted driving isn’t confined to texting or scrolling. Looking away for even a moment to check notifications or hold a phone can lead to accidents with irreversible consequences.

Why Lenahan & Dempsey Are Leaders in Distracted Driving Cases

If you or a family member has been injured in an accident caused by a distracted driver, you likely face massive physical, emotional, and financial stress. At Lenahan & Dempsey, we understand this burden and are here to help.

Proven Skill

Distracted driving cases require sharp legal insights and a thorough understanding of relevant laws like Paul Miller’s Law. With decades of success representing victims, our highly skilled attorneys have excelled in achieving justice for clients.

We have successfully recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for victims of distracted driving crashes. Our work has earned recognition from judges and peers alike:

• Named a Tier 1 Law Firm in The Best Law Firms in America, offering the highest level of skill and reliability.
• Eight lawyers are included in Best Lawyers in America and Pennsylvania Super Lawyers.
• Top-tier leadership, including Firm President John Lenahan Jr. and Attorney Matthew Dempsey, who rank among the Top 100 Lawyers in Pennsylvania.

Timothy Lenahan, listed as Best Lawyers in America’s Top Insurance Lawyer for our region, has been instrumental in fighting for the injured against large insurers. Our dedicated team ensures that clients receive not only compensation but also compassion, guiding them through every step of the recovery process.

When you choose Lenahan & Dempsey, you’re entrusting your case to a law firm committed to prioritizing your well-being while pursuing justice.

Making Roads Safer Together

Paul Miller’s Law represents a significant milestone in Pennsylvania’s efforts to reduce distracted driving. While legislation is an essential tool for fostering safer roads, real safety is achieved when every driver commits to giving the road their undivided attention.

With conveniently located offices in Scranton, Berwick, Tunkhannock, and the Pocono Mountains region, we’re dedicated to helping those injured in distracted driving accidents across all of Northeastern/Central PA and the Pocono Mountains Region and surrounding counties including cities and towns such as Pittston, Wilkes-Barre, Scranton, Clarks Summit, Dallas, Kingston, Bear Creek, Meshoppen, Back Mountain, Dunmore, Carbondale, Nanticoke, Bloomsburg, Hazelton, East Stroudsburg, Throop, Jessup, Forest City, and more.

If you or someone you love has suffered from a distracted driving accident, you deserve knowledgeable, empathetic legal support. Lenahan & Dempsey is here to help. Contact us today to fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.

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